After a short lighting delay, Florida State was able to practice in full pads for the first time this preseason on Friday.

Head coach Jimbo Fisher says there is no difference between shells and full pads with the way his team practices.

"We ain't tackling right now. We will tackle at times. We do everything we do in shells, we do in pads," Fisher said. "We do it the same way. The only thing is you've got a little more protection on your knees. We do it because they've got to learn to wear them, we'll tackle some, but bodies on the ground is where your injuries occur."

In spite of the delays Fisher was extremely pleased with how the team practiced. He said the best word to describe the full pads scrimmage was consistency.

"I thought we were both making plays when the other guy was doing well and that was very encouraging," he said. "That means less missed assignments, guys getting in the right place, effort, attitude practiced very consistent I liked it."

Thompson returns to action

After missing the previous three practices for precautionary reason, FSU;s leading rusher in 2010, Chris Thompson returned to practice on Friday.

"It felt real good to be back out there with my teammates and I'm really doing fine right now," Thompson said after practice.

Thompson was in a blue non-contact jersey for practice. Fisher said that he still blocks on passing plays, but the non-contact is to prevent him from being banged around on running pays as he eases back into things.

Despite missing the spring and the past three days Fisher said Thompson didn't miss a step on Friday.

"It was great to see him out there," Fisher said. "Hitting his assignments, sharp kid boy, it's good to have him out there."

With all the talent at the running back position, Thompson said that was extra motivation to get back on the field. But not so he could remain atop the depth chart, instead so he could be the leader of the segment.

"It's a lot of motivation," he said. "Just having a big running back group like that, and I want to be the one to set the example for the younger guys that's just coming in and everything."

Faircloth working at guard

In an effort to help create depth along the offensive line, 6'7 295-pound lineman Garrett Faircloth has worked at guard the past two days.

On Friday he even worked some with the first-team offense at right guard (Bryan Stork moved over to left guard).

"I've really like Garret's development," Fisher said. "We've got him in there at guard some too. Really did a nice job, and he's learning is starting to become a very good football player."

With heal concerns for starting left guard David Spurlcok and the frequency of injuries that occur to lineman, the ability to play multiple positions makes Faircloth a huge asses for Fisher and offensive line coach Rick Trickett.

"You've go to have that versatility go back and forth," Fisher said. "You know up front-that's why we move those guys around like that. It was very encouraging and from what I saw today he seemed to have a pretty big day."

Notable

Running back Jermaine Thomas didn't practice again due to migraines.

Safety Gerald Demps was not dressed out for practice after suffering a head injury on Thursday.

FSU will have it's first two-a-day practices on Saturday.

Head coach Jimbo Fisher responded to speculation that FSU could jump to the SEC.

"There is no offer on the table. I have not spoken with anybody about it. We love the ACC and love the conference we're in."

Quote of the day

Safety Nick Moody on practicing pads for the first time this preseason.:

"I'm ready for it. We're all excited for it," he said before practice. "I'm especially excited for it, I haven't hit anybody since the bowl game."